Fencamfamine

Identification

Name

Fencamfamine

Accession Number

DB01463

Type

Small Molecule

Groups

Approved, Illicit, Withdrawn

Description

Fencamfamine (Glucoenergan, Reactivan) is a stimulant which was developed in the 1960s as an appetite suppressant, but was later withdrawn for this application due to problems with dependence and abuse. It is around half the potency of dexamphetamine, and is prescribed at a dose of 10-60mg, although abusers of the drug tend to rapidly develop tolerance and escalate their dose. Reactivan is still rarely used for treating depressive day-time fatigue, lack of concentration and lethargy, particularly in individuals who have chronic medical conditions, as its favourable safety profile makes it the most suitable drug in some cases. [Wikipedia]

Pharmacology

For the the treatment of depressive fatigue in convalescence and other debilitated states as well as in the treatment of depressive day-time fatigue, lack of concentration and lethargy.

Structured Indications

Not Available

Pharmacodynamics

Fencamfamine increases drive and mental alertness and an elevation of mood and a general feeling of well-being. It is a central nervous system stimulant, which increases locomotor activity.

Mechanism of action

Fencamfamine acts as an indirect dopamine agonist. It releases dopamine by a similar mechanism to amphetamines, but is 10x less potent than dexamphetamine at producing this effect. The drug seems to inhibit the dopamine transporter (DAT) that removes dopamine from the synapses. This inhibition of DAT blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine into the presynaptic neuron, increasing the amount of dopamine in the synapse. It also stimulates the release of dopamine and norepinephrine into the synapse. Finally, it increases the magnitude of dopamine release after a stimulus, increasing the salience of stimulus. Also unlike amphetamines, fencamfamine does not inhibit the action of monoamine oxidase enzymes and so is somewhat safer. Some experiments also suggest a role for opioid receptors in the activity of fencamfamine, as low doses can cause paradoxical sedation, and some effects of the drug are blocked by naloxone.

Overdosage is characterised by nausea, agitation and restlessness, dryness of the mouth, dizziness and tremor. In gross overdosage the above symptoms may also be associated with dyspnoea, tachycardia, disorientation and convulsions.